Audit: SUU’s ESL Program Flawed, But Plagiarism Not The Norm

Flaws in Southern Utah University’s English as a Second Language program — such as passing students based "largely" on their attendance — allowed plagiarism to happen, but it wasn’t endemic, according to a newly released audit.

The review was triggered by complaints from former instructor Belinda Frost, who alleged the program tolerated widespread plagiarism by students.

The audit, by ESL professors from Utah State University, found otherwise.

"We do not feel that the claim that plagiarism was a norm that was accepted within the ESL unit is a founded one," the audit said. "The faculty we spoke with appeared to be genuinely dedicated and concerned and we don’t think they would consciously allow plagiarism in the curriculum."